Castle Stuart pays tribute to US golfer Arnold Palmer

Arnold Palmer at Castle Stuart in 2015

A Scottish golf club that was working with Arnold Palmer on building his first course in Scotland has paid tribute to the US golfer.

Palmer has died in hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at the age of 87.

In 2015, he visited Castle Stuart near Inverness to prepare plans for a course on land next to the club's championship course.

Stuart McColm, of Castle Stuart, described Palmer as a "true legend".

Highland councillors approved plans for the 18-hole Palmer Tribute course at Castle Stuart in June this year.

The company, Arnold Palmer Group, is continuing to develop the project.

'Fitting tribute'

Mr McColm, general manager at Castle Stuart, said: "Everyone connected with Castle Stuart was extremely sad to hear the news of Mr Palmer's passing.

"Golf, and sport in general, has lost a true legend and a real iconic figure.

"His visit to Castle Stuart last year was unforgettable. He had a real presence and everyone was in awe of the great man."

Mr McColm added: "Our plans for the Palmer Tribute are ongoing.

"We have planning permission and are working to clear the conditions that will pave the way for a potential spring start.

"If everything goes according to plan, the new course will provide a fitting tribute in Scotland to the great man and his momentous career."